Championing Africa’s Young Storytellers

South African author and literary advocate Nomawele Njongo never imagined that writing her deeply personal book, Abortion by the Womb of Democracy, would ignite a movement stretching across more than 30 African countries. But that is exactly what happened. When her sons, Kwazi and Thina, began writing their own books in 2020, she realised something powerful: teenagers are more than enthusiastic readers — they are gifted storytellers with voices that deserve to be heard.

This awakening led to the birth of KwaziThina Publishers, named after her sons, followed by the Africa Teen Authors Book Initiative (ATABI). Today, ATABI is a thriving pan-African platform nurturing young writers across the continent and the diaspora. “From my sons’ notebooks, we built a literary movement,” says Njongo. “Teenagers carry stories the world needs to hear.”

Njongo’s impact has earned her significant national recognition. She is a Voice of Heritage Award winner from the National Heritage Council of South Africa and a Brand South Africa Play Your Part Ambassador, celebrated for flying the national flag and championing active citizenship. She was also a finalist in the 40 Under 40 South Africa Awards in the Community Development category — a clear acknowledgment that empowering young storytellers is nation-building work.

Representing South Africa in Moscow

Njongo is currently in Moscow, Russia, where she is proudly representing South Africa as one of only 13 authors chosen by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture to participate in the Moscow International Book Fair. “This endorsement is a tremendous honour,” she says. “It affirmed that stories written by and for young adults belong on the global stage.”

At the Fair, Njongo served as a panelist alongside fellow South African writer Anzil Kulsen in a discussion facilitated by Khathu Maestro Ndou. Their conversation explored what defines South African young adult literature, how to inspire new teenage writers, and the importance of African storytelling. At the heart of her message was her defining slogan — “Let Africa Tell Her Stories.” Authenticity, she stressed, is essential in shaping the continent’s narrative.

Global Connections and New Inspiration

Njongo says the reception from Russian readers and publishers was overwhelmingly encouraging. South African books drew strong interest, and many titles from the national delegation were purchased. She was also impressed by the high standard of Russian book production. “The quality of writing and illustration stood tall among the international offerings,” she notes. Her visit to the Russian State Library was another highlight — an experience she describes as unforgettable and rich with lessons for the South African publishing space.

Although there are no formal expansion plans into Eastern Europe yet, Njongo believes the seeds of collaboration are already planted. ATABI previously had a participant living in Moscow, a connection that made this year’s visit feel perfectly aligned. “Sharing our publishing model here has opened doors for future opportunities,” she says.

Njongo’s international momentum continues back home. On 13 December, she will serve as the main speaker at the Africa Rising Youth International Summit at Wits University, presenting on Creative Capital: Unlocking the Economic Power of Africa’s Storytellers and Artists. Sharing a platform with leaders such as Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma marks an important step in positioning storytelling as a key economic driver.

From a single book written in her home to a movement empowering young writers across the continent, Nomawele Njongo’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of stories — and the African youth who are rising to tell them.